Arkansas Week

"Arkansas Week" highlights a dedicated, distinguished group of Arkansas journalists and political scientists who discuss issues in the news.

"Arkansas Week" is hosted by Steve Barnes. Barnes has been on the air in the Natural State since 1968 when he started as a copy boy on weekends at KTHV-TV Channel 11 in Little Rock. His adept hand at leading journalists and others in a discussion of current events complements his encyclopedic knowledge of the state, its players and its past. Barnes has not only become one of the most recognizable and respected people within Arkansas, but has connected with a national audience through work published in the New York Times, fed to the Reuters news service and shown on networks ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN and PBS. He has been a recipient of the University of Arkansas journalist of the year award, as well as receiving first prize for television documentary awarded by the Society of Professional Journalists.

Most Recent

Arkansas Week September 22, 2017(ACA) With both Arkansas's senators on board, can the latest repeal attempt succeed? ($6B) This time the governor says he's on board as well but providers wish he'd disembark. (WMT, OZRK) Two Arkansas giants, two enormous capital investments, dare we hope it's contagious? (1957) And an anniversary, how much and what to celebrate?

Arkansas Week August 18, 2017(Trump/AR) The president roars, to a mixed response in Arkansas. (DYS) Outsourcing, will another attempt to address youth services work? (8th Circuit) A federal appeals court and Planned Parenthood in Arkansas, is the case headed for Washington? (Broyles) veteran sports journalist assesses the impact of an Arkansas icon.

Arkansas Week August 4, 2017(Immigration) President Trump endorses Tom Cotton's plan to curb legal immigration. (Taxes) Lawmakers move on to tax reform, but can they get it done? (Health Care) Repeal-and-replace is dead - so why is the governor back in Washington? (Business) And a big week on Wall Street - and for Arkansas companies.

Arkansas Week July 28, 2017(Medical marijuana) Rollout of legal, medical marijuana in Arkansas is halfway home. (Commerce) What's an entrepreneur got to do to turn her empty lot into lucrative pot? (Patients) Plus, for Arkansans living with a host of chronic conditions, from muscle spasms to ALS – when can they give this new, old therapy, a try? (Control) It's the health department's responsibility to ensure quality. How can they be sure the medical MJ is A-OK?

Arkansas Week July 21, 2017(Senate) Another attempt is expected to pass a Republican healthcare bill. (Cotton & Boozman) Arkansas's two senators finally speakup on the issue, but how does their position compare with the governor's. (Michael Maggio) A former circuit judge begins a prison sentence for bribery. But an appeal and investigation continue. (EPA) And the head of the Environmental Protection Agency visits Arkansas touting changes in regulations.

Arkansas Week July 14, 2017(The Plan) On Capitol Hill, the GOP takes another run at health care — but are the votes there? (The List) In Arkansas, lawmakers cut wait times for disability services... (The Rollout) ...and the state starts taking applications for medical marijuana. (The Emails) And back in Washington, another batch of emails dogs the White House.

Arkansas Week July 7, 2017(Violence) A nightclub shooting prompts action to combat an escalation of violent crime in Little Rock. (Healthcare) As the Senate prepares to resume talks about healthcare, Arkansas's two members have been noticeably quiet. (Voter Data) A president panel's request for voter information has the governor saying it's 'too broad.' (Revenue) And after a few nervous months for finance officials, Arkansas ends the budget year with a surplus.

Arkansas Week June 30, 2017(I-30) How much asphalt and concrete, and are all the costs being considered? (Commerce) The business outlook in the state's core counties. (Community) Can cooperation compliment competition in the decades ahead. (Rivalry?) Put another way, are their prudent limits to regional rivalry?

Arkansas Week June 23, 2017(AHCA) Now we have the Senate's version, what would it mean for Arkansas? (Trade) The reversal on Cuba, no one thinks it's good for Arkansas. (WMT vs. AMZN) Two global giants, one based in Arkansas, joined in battle. (THC) And shopping, and a product, that neither offers - at least not now.

Arkansas Week June 16, 2017(Forward?) A city and a school district say yes to taxes, a turning point? (Abroad) The search for foreign capital, the governor and his passport. (Cotton) The probe of foreign interference, an Arkansan standing with his president. (Chasm) And insanity cloaked in political rhetoric, can we do something about it other than live with it, or die because of it?

Arkansas Week June 9, 2017(Asphalt) What price highways and how to get the money? The Commission has a suggestion. (Taxes) Along those lines, so to speak, how much and who should pay? (WMT/TSN) Two Arkansas corporate giants in the news, both in the billions. (Cotton/Comey) And how tight a wire walks a senator from Arkansas?

Arkansas Week June 2, 2017(DFA) The 11th month of the fiscal year, an 11th hour? (BRP) That's Blue Ribbon Commission, as in taxes, in what direction is it headed? (THC) How much tax revenue marijuana will produce isn't known, , along with a lot more. (EPA) Plus, Washington and the Arkansas economy, the Arkansas environment.

Arkansas Week May 26, 2017(DOA) It hasn't a prayer of passing though it nonetheless has some Arkansas politicians wincing. (Asphalt) Speaking of salvation, is there really no hope for Arkansas highways? (Billion) Speaking of money, the cost of college in Arkansas, it's not going down. (2021) And some other numbers, what do they portend for Arkansas politics in the decade soon to arrive?

Arkansas Week May 19, 2017('18) Governor Hutchinson, going for a second, which Democrat will try for a first? (M.C.) Four U.S. House seats are up, will the tumult in Washington be a factor? (Crops) On the business front, big losses for a big industry& (1Q) &and pretty impressive numbers for another.

Arkansas Week May 12, 2017(FBI) Could a change at the top at the FBI have an impact in Arkansas? (ACA) How much of any impact could be felt on policy and how much in the purely political? (WMT) Arkansas's corporate giant, can it find its footing in cyber-sales? (ETR) And Arkansas's energy giant, the future, it says, is not in coal.

Arkansas Week May 5, 2017(Session) Make it quick, the governor requested, and they did. (Medicaid) wanted from the legislature, what will Arkansas get in return? (Budget(s)) What he wanted and got from previous sessions are showing up in ways he'd prefer to avoid. (Executions) So, too, inevitably, will an issue he'd prefer to disappear.

Arkansas Week April 28, 2017(4 of 8) Arkansas's last execution for the foreseeable future, but how distant is the future? (Session) Sine die, then a special, Medicaid on the agenda. (Protein) Another billion-dollar purchase, and the cost of record unemployment. (Taxes) And how much for Arkansas, and at what cost to a campaign promise?

Arkansas Week April 21, 2017(Lee) The first in a dozen years, perhaps hardly the last. (Deathwatch) Will the litigation, and the calendar, compel an alternative? (Feedback) Recess wasn't as rambunctious as the Arkansas delegation might have feared, but it was spirited. (Comeback) And just around the corner, their state-level counterparts prepare to reassemble.

Arkansas Week April 14, 2017(4/17?) The lede, what we know, and don't know, about seven men and four nights. (Appeals) Long hours, lengthy briefs, weary lawyers a half-dozen judges, and a resolute governor. (Duals) Also tonight, are two county seats still one too many? (GOP) And the tension within the majority party, any impact here?

Arkansas Week April 7, 2017(91st) The legislature recesses, the governor says he's happy, others less so. (FY18) Financing the government, some nervousness. (Appeals) Tension, in the courts, not to mention Death Row. ('Nuclear') And an option exercised, what now for the nation, for Arkansas?

Arkansas Week March 31, 2017(5.5 Billion) A state budget with little in the way of surprises. (Revenues) A warning from the governor that the budget may prove a bit rich. (8 in 10) A flurry of last minute litigation, but on Death Row the minutes are growing short. (Insiders) But first, an appraisal of the session from the leaders of both parties.

Arkansas Week March 24, 2017(Showdown) Obamacare, Trumpcare and Arkansas's congressmen. (VPOTUS) A visit from the veep, to what end? (Optics) King-Lee, one PR problem solved, but do others threaten? (RSA) And with the session near its end, how to spend?

Arkansas Week March 17, 2017('DOA') A senator from Arkansas, among others, declares the Trump-Ryan health care bill a goner. (So…) With a division even among Arkansas Republicans, where from here? (K-12) In Washington and Little Rock, vouchers, if by another name. (Guns) And some additional names, Colt, Smith and Wesson, Ruger, Glock, among them.

Arkansas Week March 10, 2017(Health) Asacare, Ryancare, Trumpcare, whichever, whatever… What's at stake for Arkansas? (Education) For charters and vouchers it looks like a session to remember. (Welfare) Workers' Comp, will this be the session business has longed for? (Hardware) And campus carry, a gun bill that extends rather beyond the campus.

Arkansas Week March 3, 2017(Up 6.5 Percent) Not totally revolutionary but close, a highway money plan. (13 Counts) State money for a small private college, and some long-anticipated indictments. (N.R.A.) Has a powerful interest group holstered the campus carry bill? (King-Lee) And another tightrope walk between two opposing philosophies.

Arkansas Week February 24, 2017(Caps) A quarter-million, or a half? And how big a hurdle? (Tax) Internet levies, can red and blue make peace? (I-D) Voting, ballot security, or something else? (Heat) And guns on campus, who would carry?

Arkansas Week February 17, 2017(Tort) Conservatives and big business have craved it for years and it now seems within reach. (Tax) Is a levy most of us haven't been paying only a click or two away? (Trans) An Arkansas version of a bathroom bill and an implied threat of a veto. (Training) And another hot button, heat and higher ed.

Arkansas Week February 10, 2017(91st) A notable week at the Capitol for what passed and what hasn't. (Cyber-tax) It won't arrive tomorrow but its arrival seems inevitable. (THC) Marijuana… The legislature Wrestles with who gets to grow, sell, smoke or otherwise consume it, and when. An update. (Higher ed) But first… a new approach to funding Arkansas's post-secondary schools.

Arkansas Week February 3, 2017(Shortfall?) No cause for worry, the governor says, confessing some concern. (Receipts) The January take, above last year, below forecast. (The 3 Gs) The majority party's social agenda, the minority party can't seem to stop it. (TrumpAR) But first, After two weeks, how's the new president playing in a state he won in a breeze.

Arkansas Week January 27, 2017(Taxes) Levies, exemptions, a smiling governor. (Education) Far fewer smiles in K-12 and higher. (Abortion) A familiar issue and other hot buttons... (20 Percent) ...and Arkansas in world trade, will it be trumped?

Arkansas Week January 20, 2017(Taxes) It's full speed ahead for the governor's plan, though an alternative gets a hearing. (Ad wars) A multi-million dollar state contract and the dispute surrounding it. (Plants) Marijuana, With millions at stake, the path forward is still hazy. (45) And unclear, as well, Arkansas under a new president.

Arkansas Week January 13, 2017(Taxes) The session begins with tax cuts high on the agenda. (House) And as it begins, a consolidation of authority in the Speaker.(GIF) Often if not always controversial, a legislative prerogative produces new scandal. (SCOARK) And the new chief of the state's highest court grabs the reins.

Arkansas Week December 16, 2016(50 Million) The governor's tax cut plan, the details. (1-9-17) With the legislature sitting in three weeks. the hopper already is filling. (.25) The Fed, what will that single click mean to Arkansas? (-30-) And, a tip of the hat to the players who left the stage in the year now ending.

Arkansas Week December 9, 2016(Medicaid) Washington plays ball with the governor… for now. (ArFuture) A new administration plan for two-year job training, how far will it go? (Marijuana) The law's the law, says Mr. Hutchinson, so here's your cannabis commission. (NAFTA/TPP) But he has lingering concern for commodities of a different sort.

Arkansas Week December 2, 2016(ACA) A president and a governor, at odds over medical finance? (Exports) A president and a governor, at odds over trade? (DHS) Foster care, another call for the state to take action. (Dollars) There's action aplenty in the economy, can it last?

Arkansas Week November 25, 2016(Medicaid) With a new White House only weeks away, where does that leave the state's health care program? (Budget) Ways and means? Still Uncertain. (75/24) House Democrats lose a seat after the vote, House Republicans win a supermajority. (Biz) And banks, overtime and an executive exit.

Arkansas Week November 18, 2016(91st) They've yet to take the oath, yet to sit - but they aren't sitting around. (DHS) Tax cuts, yes, but a renewed focus on the children at risk. ('18) The outlook for the state treasury, and the private sector? (1-20-17) And what role, if any, for Arkansans in a new White House?

Arkansas Week November 11, 2016(Trump!) Twenty years in Arkansas, 25 in Washington, two campaigns and hundreds of millions of dollars and she saw the state and the nation get redder. ((R) Arkansas) The state's half-dozen delegates to Washington keep their seats in a cakewalk. (Pickups) Already a decided minority, the Democrats in the legislature see their number continue to shrink. (?) Where, from here, do both parties go?

Arkansas Week November 4, 2016(Nov. 8) It's our election eve broadcast, is there any blue in the forecast? (K-12) Public schools and the money to fund them, is the state skating the edge? (Dollars) The state treasury, how much room for tax cuts? (Allen) And a farewell to a man who helped make this network and Arkansas a better place.

Arkansas Week October 28, 2016(Countdown) Short days remain, is there any room for surprise? (Pot) A somewhat surprising announcement after the Supreme Court rules. (Fiscal) Rather less surprise on the state budget front… (3Q) …and the hope for pleasant surprise as Arkansas Incorporated reports.

Arkansas Week October 21, 2016(Sidelined?) The governor's budget and War Memorial, is the stadiumthe first conspicuous target? (China) The governor's travels andtrade, his own trans-pacific partnership. ('16) The governor, and the rest of the state Republican leadership sticking with their nominee. ('18,'20) And if you're weary of this campaign year, the next cycles are already cycling.

Arkansas Week October 14, 2016(SCOARK) No on casinos, no on tort reform, yes to marijuana… (Ballot) …which leaves economic development, tenure and marijuana. (Trump) The GOP’s major Arkansas candidates, sticking with their presidential nominee. (China) And the Governor’s own Trans-Pacific Treaty, an investment update.

Arkansas Week October 7, 2016(Red) The dominant party and the program it wants to pursue. (Blue) Once dominant, what’s the way forward for the loyal opposition? (Purple) How much if any room remains for hybrid politics?

Arkansas Week September 30, 2016(Tort) The ballot questions, and a question about one in particular. (Medicaid) Planned Parenthood and the courts, another setback for the governor. ($3B) A city craving good news hears the good news confirmed. (Head-on) And, of course, the debate take one.

Arkansas Week September 23, 2016(317,289) Obamacare and Arkansas, the latest numbers, the anticipated expense. (O.T.) Hourly wages and Arkansas, and the Arkansas attorney general. (Fed) Interest rates and Arkansas lenders, what if yours isn't a billion-dollar bank? ('16) And if the outcome in Arkansas seems more and more predictable, the demographics are no less provocative.

Arkansas Week September 16, 2016(THC) Medical marijuana, the debate hardens. (Casinos) Gambling, predictable recusals, predicable rivals. (Caucus) The governor campaigns for coding, the loyal opposition for pre-K. ('16) And with Labor Day behind us, the air wars in Arkansas begin.

Arkansas Week September 9, 2016(Haze) The Arkansas Environment and the EPA, a pushback. (Oil) The Arkansas environment and the PSC, the go-ahead. ($126M) The Arkansas Razorbacks and the UA trustees, the go-ahead. (Beige) And the Arkansas job market, what lies ahead?

Arkansas Week September 2, 2016(Ballot) Casinos, nursing homes, marijuana and the litigation. ('16) The Clintons and their foundation, the Donald and his wall. (I-30) The controversy over public works in Pulaski, is the deal done? (WMT) Plus, the Arkansas giant, and its latest attempt to manage a new economy.

Arkansas Week August 26, 2016(300K) Enrollment surges, the governor cautions. (Courts) Ballot issues, litigation always the certainty. (Shutdown?) New scrutiny and new pressure on a nominee's namesake foundation… ("Humane") …and new rhetoric on a hair-trigger issue raises new alarm on the right.

Arkansas Week August 19, 2016(8th) School choice- The state ed board gets its hand slapped. ('16) Unintended, intended or simply inevitable- the Democratic nominee and change at the namesake foundation. (Jobs) The recovery, provided you feel it, what's the Arkansas index? (WMT) And in business- A very nice quarter for one retailer, and a big bet on Jet.

Arkansas Week August 12, 2016(Trump '16) They're either sticking to him or stuck with him, but how much does in matter in Arkansas? (HRC '16) More e-mails, more claims of conflict, even corruption, but is her rival letting it get through? (FOI-ed) Who gets to vote and who says so? Some confusion. (Energy) The Shale, the pipelines, the price, a pre-autumn update.

Arkansas Week August 5, 2016(Hillary) The Presidential race enters the homestretch. (Degrees) A proposal for changing funding for higher education. (GDP) Signs of strong economic growth. (Petitions) More time for gathering signatures for gambling and marijuana.

Arkansas Week July 29, 2016(Hillary) The presidential race enters the home stretch. (Degrees) A proposal to change funding for higher education. (GDP) Signs of strong economic growth. (Petitions) And more time to gather signatures for gambling and marijuana.

Arkansas Week July 22, 2016(RNC) Arkansans play a prominent role in the Republican convention. (Ethics) A complaint against Governor Hutchinson is being heard. (Executions) The state's high court turns down a challenge on drug secrecy. (Bribery) And a conviction in a case with connections to the Department of Human Services.

Arkansas Week July 15, 2016(The Drugs) With drugs in hand, Arkansas gets closer to resuming executions… (The Opposition) …while ruling out drugs of another kind. (The Trip) And the governor sees business opportunities in Europe… (The Stage) …and a political play in Cleveland.

Arkansas Week July 8, 2016(The Budget) The governor touts another budget surplus and plots more tax cuts. (The Ballot) Medical marijuana makes the November ballot. (The Plan) Michael Poore charts a new course for Little Rock schools. (The Campaign) And Hillary beats the wrap, but can she beat The Donald?

Arkansas Week July 1, 2016(LRSD) Charter schools, A striking admonition for Little Rock, and Arkansas, from a front- line soldier. (LGBT) A lopsided vote in Texarkana, and the push for anti-discrimination statues elsewhere. (HRC/DJT) The national scene, and the prominent players from Arkansas. (Gas) And holiday driving this weekend, your mileage may not go up but your bill is going down.

Arkansas Week June 24, 2016(ADH) Privatization, the state books a profit, but will the clients? (SCOARK) Two important cases at both supreme courts. (250) The electoral map looks ever grimmer for the GOP’s nominee and Arkansas Republicans are taking note. (UK) And an election overseas with consequences for Arkansas.

Arkansas Week June 17, 2016(DHS) A computer glitch, as it’s called, with a hundred-thousand trapped in the circuits. (UA/F) If we build it, will they come? Yes, say most of the trustees. (LGBT) Orlando, what impact, if any, here? (GOP) And in New York, the leader of his party in Arkansas meets his party’s presidential nominee.

Arkansas Week June 10, 2016(DHS) The biggest bureau in state government, an overhaul is underway. (Health) Already substantial, its caseload is about to get much larger. (Gillespie) The new woman at the agency, has she made a difference? (HRC) And the new nominee of her party, is she doing what her GOP counterpart is still struggling to do?

Arkansas Week June 3, 2016(Index) It isn't lifting every boat but its lifting quite a few, can the tide continue? (DFA) The state’s checking account, not a bad way to begin the summer. (WMT) It's Walmart week in Fayetteville, what about the weeks to come? ('16) And the politics of state, ever shriller.

Arkansas Week May 20, 2016(Agenda) A session supposedly summoned for highways goes from four lanes to 12. (Pushback) About highways, the governor encounters some bumps in the road. (Crude) And on the highway, what's the near-term price prospect? (UAF) But first, the near-term plans of the new man on campus.

Arkansas Week May 13, 2016(Session) A budget for the fiscal to come in place, it's sine die by not sayonara. (Asphalt) surface transportation, the governor's way or the highway? (LRSD) The state's largest school district, the tumult and the shouting. (DT/HRC) And will the tumult of the Bill Clinton presidency be front and center 20 years later?

Arkansas Week May 6, 2016(5.3 Billion) Bigger than some wanted, smaller than others craved, but&helip; a budget. (Highways) One session ends, but another looms. Is there consensus? (Trumped) He won Arkansas, he won the south, and now he's won a shot at November. (Blue?) First, what role for Arkansas's minority party in the seasons ahead?

Arkansas Week April 29, 2016(Fiscal) The train ran on time, the override failed. Now how to spend the rest of it? (Pre-K) Or, in some cases, how not to spend some of it. (LRSD) The new man at the state's largest school district. What do we know? (AEDC) But first, China’s billion-dollar stake in south Arkansas.

Arkansas Week April 22, 2016(27) The administration hits the magic number in the Senate and deal's done. (A.C.A.) The Private Option is now "Arkansas Works." Will it? (LRSD) Arkansas's largest school district is still in state hands, but new hands with new controversy. (4%) And a new low for Arkansas Unemployment.

Arkansas Week April 15, 2016(27?) Arkansas Works, the vote count keeps shifting in the Senate. (Line-item) How the governor can squeeze the supermajority he needs, if it works. (Dems) The legislature's minority party, what's the plan? (Mr. Thornton) And a tip of the hat to an Arkansan of many political hats.

Arkansas Week April 8, 2016(Step 1) The governor's health plan gets the anticipated easy majorities. (Step 2) Now, can it claim the supermajorities it needs to make "Works" work? (Manage-d?) That other component of the Hutchinson plan, what happened, and what happens next? (Dollars) And the Arkansas economy, how solid the recovery?

Arkansas Week April 1, 2016(Arkansas Works) The first test for Arkansas Works will be the easiest but not painless. We'll preview the special session. (Medicaid) The governor's plan for health savings, not everyone is happy. (Reform?) Judicial selection, whatever the merits of change, is their enough support? (LGBT) And Arkansas, the south, and a changing society.

Arkansas Week March 25, 2016(The Plan) The governor makes his case for Medicaid expansion… (The Test) …and goes statewide to test some welfare recipients for drugs. (The Sentence) A former circuit court judge is sentenced for bribery. (The Embargo) And the president takes an historic trip to Cuba.

Arkansas Week March 18, 2016(1,237 delegates) The campaign and the quest for delegates, Arkansas's included. (SCOTUS) The Supreme Court, the Scalia seat, and our senators. (SCOARK) The Arkansas judiciary, will some changes in selection and financing come about? (4.4 percent) And Arkansas unemployment, a trend to be treasured.

Arkansas Week March 11, 2016(5.3 Billion) A governor with two budgets unveils the first one, the one he says we'll like best. (Medicaid) It's contingent on federal health dollars, unlike the one he says we won't like. (DHS) How to remake the biggest state agency, which spends those dollars. ('16) And is the race about to remake itself still again?

Arkansas Week March 4, 2016(75 percent) It was a very good primary for the governor and his April agenda.(Trump) On another level it was not such a good primary for the governor and the GOP establishment. (Red) That said, the GOP did a land office business at the polls. (SCOARK) And, the business of campaign finance, and the judiciary.

Arkansas Week February 26, 2016(3/1) A substantial early vote sets the stage for a very substantial primary. (Statehouse) What's at stake come Tuesday for the Hutchinson administration? (White House) And how Super will Arkansas be in a campaign like no other? (Webb) First, the manager of a party that's resisting management.

Arkansas Week February 19, 2016(Medicaid) From the governor, a plea for a program and the legislators who support it. (HHS) Some maneuvering room from Washington, enough to be persuasive? (SC,NV) The stakes in two states, what impact on our state? (Dems) But first, the outlook this year for the party that once dominated our state.

Arkansas Week February 12, 2016(SCOARK) Again, to the surprise of absolutely no one, dark money in a race for the robe. (SCOTUS) The other Supreme Court, a setback for the president, a preliminary win for Arkansas's attorney general. (R) With a potentially pivotal primary at hand, where are Arkansas Republicans? (D) And how to pivot without stumbling.

Arkansas Week February 5, 2016(DHS/HHS) Mr. Hutchinson goes to Washington, will Washington lean his way? (DFA) The state treasury, big smiles for January, but concern for the coming fiscal year. (Complaint) The state Ethics Commission and the state treasurer, over and done? (2016) And after Huckabee, after Iowa, where's Arkansas?

Arkansas Week January 29, 2016(4.8%) Slowly, steadily, the jobless rate falls. (Trade) Arkansas exports, will they steadily, literally go south? (DHS) Rarely out of the news, a major state agency is back in the headlines. (Prisons) And does hanging tough equal playing smart?

Arkansas Week January 22, 2016(Highways) $750 million gets you $2 billion with no new taxes. (Gen Rev) A sweet deal? Or is there some alum amid the sugar? (Medicaid) And, by the way, says the governor, the deal's off without Arkansas Works. (SWN) And the economy, the energy glut. It comes home to Arkansas.

Arkansas Week January 15, 2016(Funding) What's the latest price of adequate schools? The latest assessment draws near. (Lottery) No winners in Arkansas, but higher ed won't complain. (Ethics) A complaint against a state official, now, an official inquiry. (Iowa) And the candidates with Arkansas ties, one newly tied, the other tied down.

Arkansas Week January 8, 2016(Session) Health care and highways at once, the governor wants a two-fer. (Taxes) The first numbers of the year, they don't include all of last year's. ('16) The most famous Arkansas Traveler, wow much trouble his luggage? (Bumpers) And a governor, a senator, an assessment of his life and times.

Arkansas Week December 18, 2015(Works) No surprise. Call it what you will, the governor wants to keep the money. (Roads) No surprise. the highway lobby wants some new money. (DHS Study) Is the largest state agency wisely spending its money? (Huckabee) The candidate with one foot in Arkansas is plainly short of money. (Closings) Also, a nod to the newsmakers who left us in the year past.

Arkansas Week December 11, 2015(Health) Private Option, Obamacare, Asa-care, Arkansas Works, Which?(Feedback) And the changes the governor wants, will they pass muster in Washington? In Arkansas? ('16) If The Donald is getting the national attention, is it The Ted getting the Arkansas vote? (Dollars) And the Arkansas economy, we'll get the latest.

Arkansas Week December 4, 2015(Asphalt) At last a highway bill. Now, what's it mean for Arkansas? (Health) Do personnel changes mean changes in policy? (Prisons) The budget numbers and the inmate numbers, can they be reconciled? (Economy) And about those budget numbers.

Arkansas Week November 27, 2015(Task Force) The state, the Private Option, Medicaid, how much reform? $1.4B) Red Star over south Arkansas, a paper fortune. (???) The red state to our south turns blue, but how blue and why and so what? ('16) And if one former Arkansan is gaining ground, another seems to be losing it.

Arkansas Week November 20, 2015(Highways) The governor asked for some options; now he has several. (I-30) The city, the overpasses, the exits, which option will prevail? (DHS) Another warning flare from the state's largest agency… (2016) …and a distant conflict and politics in Arkansas and the nation.

Arkansas Week November 13, 2015('16) Republicans, Democrats, Libertarians Non-partisans, Write-ins, you've got the ticket.(Debates) A former governor demoted, a former first lady still dominating.(DHS) Who's eligible and who isn't? The state takes another look.(Asa/Asia) And investment capital from the east, the governor takes a look.

Arkansas Week November 6, 2015(Roads) Building and repairing them, and how to finance both. (Receipts) Do less than neutral tax open a door? (Filings) The door's open for 2016 and we'll chat about who's walked through it. (Detroit) But first, a sobering assessment of the state's largest school district.

Arkansas Week October 30, 2015(NAEP) Arkansas kids and the nation’s, the rankings. (I-30) Does a newer, bigger interstate mean progress? (P.O.) Health care, a second look brings a change to the governor’s thinking. (Wi-Fi) And broadband, how much, where and when?

Arkansas Week October 23, 2016(Selig) Managed care and Medicaid, an outgoing executive's recommendation. (SCOARK) For eight condemned inmates, a Supreme Court reprieve. (Ethics) Money, politics and public policy, a tangle for all three branches. (2016) And a tumultuous week in the race for leadership.

Arkansas Week October 16, 2015(P.O.) The case for the Private Option, fresh ammo for its advocates.(LRSD) The state's largest school district, fresh arguments against its overseers.(Motions) Also in the courts, Planned Parenthood, the attorney general and eight inmates.(Selig) But first, the man atop the bucking bronco of state government steps down.

Arkansas Week October 9, 2015(P.O.) The case for the Private Option, fresh ammo for its advocates. (LRSD) The state's largest school district, fresh arguments against its overseers. (Motions) Also in the courts, Planned Parenthood, the attorney general and eight inmates. (Selig) But first, the man atop the bucking bronco of state government steps down.

Arkansas Week October 2, 2015(R) Our former governor, can he make the cut for the next debate?(D) Our former first lady, can she maintain the money momentum? (Shutdown) One deadline averted, but others loom.(WMT) And the retail colossus of Arkansas and the world, some tremors beneath Bentonville.

Arkansas Week September 25 ,2015('16) A fundraiser for maybe Clinton II. A fundraiser for maybe Bush III. (Shutdown?) Planned Parenthood, will the Arkansans hang tough? (Cert?) Abortion and Arkansas, an appeal to the nation's highest court. (Defense) And can guns mean butter for Arkansas? A new economic development approach.

Arkansas Week September 18, 2015(DHS) Contracts, computers, exchanges, subpoenas. (Roads) Ten cents a gallon, and a share of the big pie? (FOMC) China and cheap money, for now. What’s it mean for Arkansas? (GOP) And the latest debate, did a certain former governor get his fair share?

Arkansas Week September 11, 2015(Senate) A first-term senator draws an opponent. Can blue make a comeback? (POTUS) Two national candidates with Arkansas ties. One trying to regain momentum and the other trying to get some. (11/3/15) The first of four nights, two of eight men. Can their lawyer keep them alive? (AR-2) But first, The Congress back in session.

Arkansas Week September 4, 2015(DHS) The turmoil over Medicaid and the Private Option, an update. ($478M) The tax take, August was a very good month. (Higher Ed) State support for universities, is a new formula in order? (AR-4) But first, the agenda facing Congress next week.

Arkansas Week August 28, 2015(P.O.) Medicaid and its cousin, and the demand for social services. (J.L.T.V.) Arkansas loses a big one, what happened? (2016) Can a favorite son hold off a carpetbagger? (AR-1) But first, the coming Congressional Agenda.

Arkansas Week August 21, 2015(Medicaid) The turmoil at DHS, the administration looks for a way out. (Prisons) More beds for more inmates, more millions of dollars. (Politics) The GOP gains a state representative without an election, and another blue seat comes open. (Womack) But first, the agenda facing Congress when the recess ends.

Arkansas Week August 7, 2015(Asa-care) Ten days, not enough says the Governor. Who has a bigger deadline. (July) His tax cuts are showing up in the latest revenue report, but so is some growth. (E.P.A.) Arkansas and clean air, and the Attorney General… (D.C.) …and the agenda that awaits when the recess ends.

Arkansas Week July 31, 2015(Common Core) A contentious curriculum debate, Is rebranding the answer? (Highways) Some relief from Washington, three months's worth. (P.P.) Unsurprising unanimity on fetal tissue… (2Q) …and some not unexpected yet still welcome news about the economy.

Arkansas Week July 24, 2015(DT/HRC) Two major candidates from two parties in two nights, but they saved the news for elsewhere. (JB/TC) Two U.S. Senators of one party from one state, and a difference on one foreign policy question. (Act 137) One state, one statute, but others in play and cities going their own way. (Jobs) And a crucial index continues to inch toward the better.

Arkansas Week July 10, 2015(Same-Sex Marriage) Two weeks after a Supreme Court ruling, the ramifications continue, (Ten Commandments) A display approved by the legislature has others calling for their own, (ACT) After being rejected last month, a change in standardized testing is approved, (Clinton and Trump) And two presidential hopefuls are heading to Arkansas.

Arkansas Week July 3, 2015(The Fallout) Ripple effects in Arkansas from last week's historic ruling on same-sex marriage. (The Court) Two more 5-4 rulings from the Supremes on executions and energy. (The Fight) The attorney general takes on the EPA over water. (The Trail) And GOP candidate jumps in while Clinton counts the money.

Arkansas Week June 26, 2015(SCOTUS) A major court ruling on same-sex marriage and the Affordable Care Act. (PARCC) Despite a board vote, the Governor says he can withdraw the state from an assessment test. (Confederate Flag) Is it a symbol of hate or southern pride? (Highways) And a first meeting by a group working to find a solution for highway funding.

Arkansas Week June 19, 2015(On Alert) A shooting at the Little Rock Air Force Base leaves one man dead and lots of questions. (Standing Down) An embattled state Legislator says he won't seek re-election. (Standing Up) Ahead of an historic ruling, the Baptists won't budge. (On Tour) The governor's working European vacation.

Arkansas Week June 12, 2015(PARCCed?) He's the governor's education director, but it's not yet the governor's board. (Abroad) It is the governor's economic development program, and he's taking it across the pond. (Same-sex) If it cooled to a simmer, it's back to a boil. (Duggars) As are the troubles of an Arkansas family, their advocates, and those simply trying to sort it out.

Arkansas Week June 5, 2015(DF&A) The revenue report, good news for the new administration. (Dollars) The economy that produced the good news. How secure is its footing? (Trade) As far as farm exports, it's again Cuba si, Cotton no. (GOP) And the governing party. How painful its growing pains?

Arkansas Week May 29, 2015(Session) Ninety-million in bonds, an earlier primary and a reorganization. (Highways) Potholes and a stopgap proposal for patching them. (Abortion) An appellate court rules as expected, but with a cautionary. (Outlook) But first, industry, incentives and the workforce.

Arkansas Week May 22, 2015(Bonds) Eighty-Seven million plus of course, interest. What's the return? (2016) The primaries, March windiness, April appropriations. (HRC, MH) A former governor avoids Iowa, a former First Lady avoids reporters. (Oversight?) And those drug busts, do they raise a larger public policy question?

Arkansas Week May 15, 2015(Bonds) How big the bonds? The total will exceed the thousands. (‘16) Another issue looms when Arkansas votes. (LGBT) A city votes, putting a state law at issue. (TPP) And on another matter, our GOP senators side with our Democrat President.

Arkansas Week May 8, 2015(DF&A) April '15 was not the cruelist month, but is fiscal '17 frowning? (LGBT) If one supreme court is waiting on another, some local governments are moving ahead. (MH/HRC) Our two presidential candidates, one differentiating, the other doubling down. (LRSD) But first, the state and the state's largest school district, is there a way forward?

Arkansas Week May 1, 2015(P.O.) The Private Option. How to end it without ending it? (Dollars) Against that question, some additional encouraging numbers. (Milligan) It's tenure at the four-month mark, some confusion in the state treasurer's office. (LGBT) And will local governments pick up where the state left off?

Arkansas Week April 24, 2015(LGBT) The Little Rock directors and human rights, is litigation with the state around the corner? (LRSD) The Little Rock schools, they're the state's responsibility. Is there a way forward? (XOM) A fine and a pledge in the Pegasus pipeline spill… (DHS) …and yet another if expected investigation of state human services.

Arkansas Week April 17, 2015(SCOARK) Three new justices for one new case and now what? (LGBT) Arkansas capital city, on a collision course with state law? (SBE) A report card from the state on local schools. (HRC) A campaign at long last official.

Arkansas Week April 10, 2015(Medicaid) The sessino may be over but several issues linger, one in particular. (Workforce) Prepping Arkansans for a changing economy. Some serious steps? (Barack y Fidel) How soon can an old U.S. adversary become a new Arkansas customer? (SCOARK) But first, a state Supreme Court openly at war with itself.

Arkansas Week April 3, 2015(90th) A legislative session that began smoothly grinds to a close. (1228) Was the state damaged, and if so, how much? (Overview) We'll ask leaders of both chambers and both parties to sum up the session. (JPH) And we'll note the passing of an Arkansas political pioneer.

Arkansas Week March 27, 2015(Florida) A new economic development leader from the Sunshine State. (Alabama) A closer look at DHS via Alabama. (Texas) Some state inmates will bumk in Texas. (Arkansas) And an Arkansas AG goes to Washington to fight the EPA.

Arkansas Week March 20, 2015(Payday) Paydirt? Or just and proper compensation? (50%) Capital gains. A disappearing exemption reappears. (Harris) Re-homing. The legislation and the legislator. (4/3) But first, A divided state Supreme Court and the death penalty.

Arkansas Week March 13, 2015(Adoption) Controversy, contention, on. (Schools) A busy session for education. Will it be a good one? (Cotton) Evidently unshaken, the freshman from Arkansas sets off a stir. (HRC) And her party's presumptive nominee, does she presume too much?

Arkansas Week February 27, 2015(Three Gs) It's not a wireless speed, it's the culture clash at the Capitol. (Highways) With a signal from the governor, the general fund is off limits, for now. (Lottery) A new branch of DF&A, but does that address the problem? (Dial-up?) And speaking of the Internet, the bandwidth of the Arkansas delegation.

Arkansas Week February 20, 2015(ADC) The governor's plan for prisons, how much help will 32 million dollars buy? (Schools) A new district, how to create one? ...or not. (Fluoride) Local control, a concept that seems increasingly elastic. (Wal-Mart) And Arkansas's global giant makes a billion dollar decision.

Arkansas Week February 13, 2015(Overflow) Too many inmates and too little space. I'm trying, says the governor. (Lottery) Turning it over to another state agency. Could that be the ticket? (Civil?) Two momentous figures, one holiday, no resolution. (Core) And another task force. Lighting a fuse, or cutting one?

Arkansas Week February 6, 2015(Asa-care) All that political bloodshed we predicted. What do we know? (60?) The short sweet session everyone always wants, not so wild a dream. (Dollars) The recovery seems to be gaining momentum, if you have a job. (Asphalt) But somewhere down the road, roads.

Arkansas Week January 30, 2015(Asa-care) Health care reform, a governor with the wind at his back. (5.2 Billion) His budget for his first fiscal year. Spare to begin with now 10 million tighter. (LRSD) The state's largest school district, under new management. Or is it? (5.7 Percent) And another signal of an improving Arkansas economy.

Arkansas Week January 23, 2015(AsaCare) It was the private option, now it has another name. (3/4) And now the task of getting the legislative majorities, it needs to continue. (Taxes) Getting a new governor's revenue program through the general assembly seems the snap it was predicted, even with a surprise amendment. (LRSD) And a looming decision for the state education board and the state's largest school district.

Arkansas Week January 16, 2015(46) The oath, the address, some appointments, some executive orders. (Dollars) His tax program, if approval is a given, what about his budget? (Shakeout) Personnel changes in other offices as well, as well as in higher ed. (Maggio) And the judicial scandal centered in Faulkner County what's next?

Arkansas Week January 9, 2015(Taxes) That campaign promise? Full speed ahead (Highways) Asphalt and concrete? On hold for the moment. (Same-sex) A new Supreme Court, a pending appeal. (LRSD) And the state's largest school district. What's the state to do?

Arkansas Week December 19, 2014(Cuba) A breakthrough for Arkansas commerce, but how big the political collision? (Ruble) Arkansas drivers smiling, Russian bankers fainting. (2016) Oh, yes, the season's underway, and we're not talking Christmas. (Adieu) And a tip of the hat to the newsmakers and newspeople who left us in the year ending.

Arkansas Week December 12, 2014(Same-sex) The Supreme Court in a holding pattern, with Fayetteville changing course. (pre-K) Cash from the feds where the state doubts it can tread. (Entergy) A billion-collar purchase by the state's largest power provider… (M.D.) …but first, how healthy is Arkansas, and how to make it healthier.

Arkansas Week December 5, 2014(Asa) The governor-elect, shaping his government, lobbying for his tax program. (Roads) The lame duck incumbent, a plug for a continuing highway tax. (Gas) Cheaper fuel and grateful drivers. More dollars for asphalt? (Prisons) And incarceration, more talk of cheaper options.

Arkansas Week November 28, 2014(Same-sex) A federal judge rules for the plaintiffs, the state court contemplates. (Asa) The governor-elect shapes a government in waiting with some familiar names. (Crime) Another prison? It didn't seem likely and even less likely now. (GOP) And the economy… Can the nice national numbers trickle down?

Arkansas Week November 21, 2014(Asa) A governor-elect and the government he's forming. The first decisions. (Pre-K) The big one, of course, is the budget. Could one of the smaller items suggest what's to come? (Marriage) Oral arguments in two Arkansas courtrooms on a polarizing issue… (D.C.) …and Washington, ah Washington.

Arkansas Week November 14, 2014(Fiscal Year 2016) A lame duck urges restraint. Should his successor retrain his urges? (Red/Blue) The next legislature, how much 'bi-' in bipartisan? (Pardons) Absolution, a difficult, sometimes delicate matter. (2016) And a former governor who well understands takes a harder look at the big prize.

Arkansas Week November 7, 2014(2014) It's safe to turn on your television again, if that turns you on. (2014) There were few safe places on Tuesday for Arkansas Democrats. (2014) What happened and why, (2015) ...and what it means for the governors and the governed.

Arkansas Week October 31, 2014(Senate) If it's not down to the wire, the nominees are pretty good actors. (Governor) Endorsements, more endorsements. How much of a difference if any? (Arkansas Districts 1, 2, 3, and 4) Will the composition of the congretional delegation change? (90th General Assembly) And the next General Assembly, the Stakes. Trick or Treat? Take your pick.

Arkansas Week October 24, 2014(Tom/Mark) A Republican says he's rolling in dough. A Democrat says he's rolling out new voters. (Asa/Mike) Two nominees and public education, would school consolidation again be on the table? (Leslie/Nate) Downballot, an theics inquiry and an endorsement. (Bruce/James Lee) And with election day approaching, no more nice guy.

Arkansas Week October 17, 2014(Senate) Obama and the billionaires, not a rock group but there was rock-and-roll. (Governor) Obamacare, the private option, tax cuts and a Chinese communist. (Lt. Gov.) An office that's vital to the survival of the free world. (Attorney General) An office that's vital to everything else. (3rd Quarter) And is it still the economy, a little? And if it is, how's it doing?

Arkansas Week October 10, 2014(Senate) The two least known candidates may have had a better week than the two best known. (Governor) The major Party nominees again meet face-to-face, but did the needle move? (FY '16) For both statehouse candidates and the legislature a warning, another, from the outgoing governor. (Crittenden) And a bankrupt hospital, who knew what and for how long?

Arkansas Week October 3, 2014(2014) The political buzz, it shifts from the Senate race to one a bit farther down ballot. (Debates) The Cotton-Pryor contest, the face-to-face details are finally done. (SCOARK) Oral arguments in a case that could make a difference in a tight race. (Parole) And a savage killing keeps the spotlight on the dynamics of early release.

Arkansas Week September 26, 2014(2014) The polls, the spots, the spending, an update. (Tension) Oh, and the sparks, and there's more of that to come as well. (SCOARK) And the lawsuits, with issues they're inevitable… (Training) …and jobs, how to equip Arkansans to fill them?

Arkansas Week September 12, 2014(PO/GAO/ACA) The cost of health care, do the numbers match the premise and the promise? (Issues) The minimum wage and statewide booze, will the numbers withstand a challenge? (2014) The state and district campaigns, highly debatable. (LRSD) And a state that thought it saw the end of state assistance might should think again.

Arkansas Week September 5, 2014(The Ballot) Two key questions go up for a vote. How does that affect the rest of field? (The Supremes) Action in two cases set the stage for big rulings by the state’s high court. (The Race) How health care reform is shaping this fall’s marquee match-ups. (The Debt) The former lieutenant governor, paid in full.

Arkansas Week August 29, 2014(2014) The campaigns, Senate and the Statehouse. We'll have an update. (P.O.) There's some good news on the affordable care front, but is it sustainable? (PSE/ASE) There's another insurance problem in Arkansas and no news is not good news. (Broke-rages) And turmoil for some Delta farmers, could it be that government isn't big enough?

Arkansas Week August 22, 2014(GOPower?) A who's who of the Republican establishment parachutes in for the ticket. (Demo-graphics) Can the party under siege count on its one-solid constituencies? (Issues) Can items that may or may not be on the ballot shape the outcome? (3 Million) And how would you like to be the one to run a state lottery?

Arkansas Week August 15, 2014(Motivation) Labor Day's just around the corner and the campaigns are trying to round it. (Litigation) Two big cases to follow, both with real money at stake and real implications for public policy. (C6) Reducing it, sure; but not everyone is sure how to do it and how fast. (H20) And could a proposed publid-private partnership save a trillion gallons?

Arkansas Week August 8, 2014(12.4 percent) Some health insurance numbers to crow about, and there was some crowing. (GOP) What does it mean for some Republicans in the legislature and on the stump? (AR-GOV) In the race for the statehouse we'll update the rhetoric and perhaps the reality... and have a tea-leaf look at the economy the winner will inherit.

Arkansas Week August 1, 2014(Health) In a new fiscal year and with a new school year at hand, new rates for insurance. (Dow-n) Amid the good economic news, some new and old probleams conspire. (AR) In the race to reach the state Capitol, is anyone really ahead? (DC) And in the race to leave the nation's capitol, was anything actually accomplished?

Arkansas Week July 25, 2014(The Cost) Two courts throw a key component of health reform in question, and in Arkansas, we weigh the cost. (The Toll) Is it time to start charging drivers on I-40? And what’s the future of highway funding in the state? (The Proposal) One ballot proposal gets more time, but another draws more opposition. (The Campaign) Courting constituents on the farm as November looms.

Arkansas Week July 18, 2014(Votes) We're watching the Arkansas Senate race, but our eyes are all on Washington. (Dollars) Does Money spell Winner? (Debates) More debates but do they matter? (Revenues) Wither the lottery.

Arkansas Week July 11, 2014(Minimum Wage) Petition signatures are now being verified by the state. Will there be enough to get on the ballet? (Pryor) The incumbent senator removes footage from a campaign ad after being accused of politicizing a tragedy. (Cotton) His Republican opponent meanwhile is facing criticizism privately from those within his own party. (Session) And moving forward with the issues that brought lawmakers together last week.

Arkansas Week June 27, 2014(Session) Teacher health insurance and criminal justice - three days and cut? (E-games) In or out this time, another issue not likely to die. (IT-ussle) Another conflict, another special session? (Tea-d off) And the mood in Dixie, the Tea Party wins one but loses another.

Arkansas Week June 20, 2014(A fix?) The cost of health insurance, teachers and administrators getting antsy. (P.O.) The Arkansas adaptation, should the enrolled get ready to pay? (HRC) Twice a former first lady, thrice an author, does the latest book mean twice the candidate? (John Miller) And an appreciation of a legendary Arkansas Legislator.

Arkansas Week June 13, 2014(Runoffs) The second primary and the victor, spotlight GOP. (P.O.) One race in particular what will it mean for the private option and the January session. (Schism) Will Arkansas republicans follow the regional trend? (Premiums) With time running short is there a way out on teacher health coverage?

Arkansas Week June 6, 2014(Tuesday) The runoff is days away, we'll have a rundown of the races. (Senate) For Democrats the long march to November isn't getting shorter. (Grass roots) Yet another attempt at medical marijuana, has anything changed? (Session?) And teacher insurance, is a solution at hand, and for how long?

Arkansas Week May 30, 2014(P.O.) Enrollment touches 170,000, how much higher? (V.A.) A health care story of a different kind, with its own political dynamic. (11/14) In the two big statewide races, on to November. (M&A) And in business, two Arkansas giants get gianter.

Arkansas Week May 23, 2014(Re-cap) The primary shakeout, and a handful of runoffs, we'll run through them. (P.O.) The private option, a first read of the January tea leaves. (Stayed) Gay marriage, what to expect after the expected stay? (Growth) And the business of Arkansas, how much bigger?

Arkansas Week May 16, 2014(Same-sex) Gay and lesbian marriage in Arkansas, it's the Supreme Court's case. (Fallout) It's a case filled with political implications, for candidates in all three branches. (Senate) An issue in another race suddenly isn't, at least to the nominees... (Judges) ...and the same court that's hearing the same-sex case ends the suspense in another.

Arkansas Week May 9, 2014(2014) Arkansas is voting, the first ballots of the primaries. (UA) Lobbying for higher ed, a bi-partisan approach. (Obama) The President in Arkansas, unavoidably political? (M and A) But first, banking in Arkansas, is it swallow or be swallowed?

Arkansas Week May 2, 2014(SCOARK) Three new justices for a seven-member court and a warm potato. (i.d.) With early voting about to begin and the primaries at hand, we'll have the latest, maybe. (Reed) A resignation, a leave of absence, and more questions. (Twisters) But first, the storms did their frightful work, did the response mechanism do its job?

Arkansas Week April 25, 2014(i.d.) Show your card before voting? Maybe not, but it's not over. (P.O.) The Arkansas approach, are the numbers behind the numbers cause for concern? (Senate '14) Arkansas's marquee contest, has the incumbent found his footing? (A.C.A.) And could Obamacare, somehow, some way, have a role in it?

Arkansas Week April 18, 2014(Senate '14) The challenger demands satisfaction, not one duel but several. (1Q Dollars) The political money, in the Senate race and the others. (Overdues) Will, or when will, the judicial question reach the Justices, and which Justices? (Blind?) But first, how apolitical can justice in Arkansas be?

Arkansas Week April 11, 2014(Arrears) The Arkansas judiciary and just dues, are they just dues? (Maggio) An ever murkier situation in the case of one judge, a judge with no cases. (2014) And with the prospect of another red tide, how much difference can lunchbucket issues make for state Democrats?

Arkansas Week April 4, 2014(Ballot?) The judges of Arkansas, will some of them get their just dues? (Baker) Judging it was time to go, a university lobbyist PACs it in. (Dollars) Five of nine judges open the campaign finance door yet wider. (DFandA) While the new numbers make the state's picture a bit brighter.

Arkansas Week March 28, 2014(Maggio) The political blurs the judicial, so much so the state Supreme Court benches a judge. (Rapert0Tyler) Senatorial prerogrative: does it signal a trened in legislative politics? (Snags?) There's potiential trouble on two rivers, where they meet and below. (Slick) And a year after Mayflower discovered Pegasus - what now?

Arkansas Week March 21, 2014(Sine Die) Barring any emergencies that's it for this year, though not the fiscal year. (Fracked) Regarding the fiscal, a veto and an easy override. (Strikedown) That abortion law from the previous session? The toughest part falls. (D.C.) And a call to Congress for action from Arkansas's public and private sector.

Arkansas Week March 14, 2014(Recess) All that's left to do is sine die, and of course manage. (2015) A new team arrives next year with new leadership. However, to confront what? (Salaries) Perhaps teacher pay, in the long shadow of Lake View. (Scandal) And with the primaries upon us and November around the corner, public officials behaving badly.

Arkansas Week March 7, 2014(76) It took five tries but the Private Option survived with one vote to spare. ('15) Next year, though, will its supporters have the votes they need? (122M) In the meantime, how much to spend and how much for the cookie jar? ('14) And this year's ticket, suggesting what for next year's politics?

Arkansas Week February 28, 2014(PO-ED) With tempers beginning to show, the speaker puts the private option on hold. (TEA-ED OFF) How much of a stand-off is political and how much is personal. (Session?) What's happens if the latest reported compromise falls through? ('14-'15) And what does the showdown suggest for this years elections, and next year's legislature?

Arkansas Week February 21, 2014(P.O.) On the north side, a first vote, then another, then another… (28) On the south end, one vote, with one vote to spare. (Taxes) Should they call the roll now and do the math later? ($8.50) And a candidate is one thing, but a major employer?

Arkansas Week February 14, 2014(Option) That's it, says the Speader. Next week, the vote. (Outlook) Will the Senate go along? …and if it does, have opponents still carried the day? (Debt) In that other Capitol, the politics of pensions and the deficit… (Judges) …and the politics of the non-political branch.

Arkansas Week February 7, 2014(2/10) It's just around the corner now, so what's around the corner? (Staff) What's to do for four employees of an empty office? (Rates) A tax program from one presumptive nominee, scorned by the other… (Receipts) …and how much room will there be for either approach?

Arkansas Week January 31, 2014(Health) Clean shaven or fuzzy, the private option and the push to preserve it. (Numbers) With days remaining before the session, what are it's demos? (Jobs, GDP) The nation's econometrics and Arkansas's... (Farm) ...including the ag sector, and the legislative breakthrough.

Arkansas Week January 24, 2014(Option(s)) If the Arkansas versions is in trouble, how much trouble? (UA/F) If the trustees see an end what kind of end? (Ballot) The amendment quandary, a way out? (Farm) And four-dollar milk, a way around it?

Arkansas Week January 17, 2013(Pulco) Twenty-five years and a billion dollars, now what? (Darr) A defiant lame duck, a soon-to-be-vacant office, now what? (Senate) 57/43 means 21/15, which means what? (Option) And even if enrollment is up, what's up?

Arkansas Week January 10, 2014(Darr) A dilemma for his own party, a delight for the Democrats. (UA/F) The hearing… did anyone hear anything? (Economy) The outlook for 2014 in dollars and cents… (Politics) …and the outlook in dollars and maybe sense.